Exploring Counselling and Motivational Interviewing: Understanding Therapy and Change

What is Counselling?

Counselling is a form of therapy that aims to help individuals explore and resolve personal issues, emotional difficulties, and mental health concerns. It provides a safe and confidential space for people to talk about their feelings, thoughts, and experiences with a trained professional known as a counsellor. The counsellor uses various techniques and approaches to assist individuals in gaining insight, developing coping strategies, and making positive changes in their lives.

What is Motivational Interviewing?

Motivational Interviewing is a collaborative and goal-oriented approach to counselling that focuses on enhancing an individual’s motivation to change. It was developed by psychologists William R. Miller and Stephen Rollnick in the 1980s and has since been widely used in various fields, including healthcare, addiction treatment, and mental health.

The main goal of Motivational Interviewing is to help individuals identify and resolve their ambivalence towards change. The counsellor works with the client to explore their motivations, values, and goals, and helps them find their own intrinsic motivation for change. The approach is non-confrontational and non-judgmental, with the counsellor guiding the client towards self-discovery and decision-making.

10 Questions to Ask During Counselling

When attending counselling sessions, it can be helpful to have some questions in mind to guide the conversation and make the most out of the experience. Here are ten questions you may consider asking during counselling:

1. What can I expect from the counselling process?
2. How long will the counselling sessions last, and how often should I attend?
3. What qualifications and experience do you have as a counsellor?
4. What is your approach to counselling, and how will it benefit me?
5. How can I ensure that our sessions remain confidential?
6. What strategies or techniques do you use to help clients?
7. How can I best communicate my concerns and feelings to you?
8. What are the potential risks or side effects of counselling?
9. How will I know if counselling is working for me?
10. Are there any additional resources or support networks you can recommend?

Remember, these questions are just a starting point, and it’s important to tailor them to your specific needs and concerns. Open and honest communication with your counsellor is key to a successful counselling experience.